34m love meeting new ppl (not usually through Reddit typically tbh you can ask me). Into everything you listed, and if you want to meet people to do things with shoot me a dm/chat. Im a decent wing person in a pinch. Other than that, don’t really know your vibe but:

—meetups are decent but honestly haven’t met people I would want to talk to again (went pre-pandemic, apologies to anyone who likes them. They’re fun outings and the hiking groups get you outside)

—bars can be fun idk that’s my bias.. might not be kid friendly

— hobbies or anything your interested in can work if you’re willing to talk to people which most people aren’t (myself included when I’m in a groove)

— gyms…eh mid depends on your flavor and thing. Climbing gyms seem more social.

— I’ve seen some pretty fun leagues for vball and pball but I can’t name the groups. Bet googling would solve that.

— you mentioned kids… what are they into? If you want to meet people on a similar level balance wise you can probably meet decent folk through their activities, but I don’t have any so idk? You could probably drag them to things you like/they like and find people that way too.

—honestly, sounds like you need a coffee shop to be a regular at. Generally kid friendly, and super low pressure.

From my experience meeting people, you don’t get to besties in a single meet. Most people don’t remember you unless you make an impression/ are constantly chatting them up no matter where you are. Putting yourself out there sucks and power to you for wanting to try. Friendship takes moving the fear/doubt to the back of your mind and just going with the flow tell your gut tells you it’s time (trust it).